Despite the setback in the title race Pellegrini was upbeat about his side's performance.

"It's difficult to say it was two points lost because we came less than 72 hours (after Wednesday's Champions League defeat by CSKA Moscow), in a very difficult moment," the former Real Madrid boss added.

"The way the game was during the 90 minutes, we deserved at least a draw. We had more chances to score.

"Of course I wanted the three points, but if you can't win it, it's better not to lose."